The Isle of Man will join international celebrations of Pilates Day with an event at the Isle of Man College of Further & Higher Education on Saturday 7th May.
Sessions run by experienced teachers will be suitable for those trying Pilates for the first time as well as those who already practice Pilates. The instructors will be Mo Sherring, Johan Zwaenepoel and Nicky Hempsall, who have more than 50 years’ fulltime teaching experience between them.
There will also be talks about Joseph Pilates and the vital role the Isle of Man played in the development of Pilates, which is now practised worldwide, and about the benefits of Pilates.
Mo explained: ‘Each year on the first Saturday in May, the Pilates Method Alliance (PMA) celebrates Pilates Day. Pilates Day was created by the PMA to promote awareness of the many benefits that Pilates method brings to every age group, and to promote healthy living.
‘As a PMA member myself, I am pleased the Isle of Man will be joining in with Pilates communities around the world by hosting Pilates Day 2016 in conjunction with the Isle of Man College of Further & Higher Education.
‘The day will include practical classes led by Johan, Nicky and myself, comprising of matwork in its form today, which has progressed from the original movements, and also the use of small equipment. All mats and equipment will be provided.
‘The day will also include a short talk on Joseph Pilates’ time on the Island. While interned here during World War I, at Knockaloe, Joseph developed exercise and training techniques into the methods which became Pilates and are now used all over the world. It is important the Isle of Man’s role in the history of Pilates is recognised worldwide, and especially on Pilates Day.’
She added: ‘Some of the numerous benefits to be gained from practising Pilates are improved posture, balance and core strength, increased strength and flexibility, better lung capacity, improved circulation and enhanced muscular and mental coordination.
‘I’d encourage anyone with an interest, whether they’ve never tried Pilates before or have been practising for years, to come along and celebrate Pilates Day with us. The event runs from 9am to 2pm, but don’t be put off if you think five hours of Pilates might be too much for you – there will be plenty of breaks and sessions focusing on the theory.’
The PMA is the international, not-for-profit, professional association and certifying agency dedicated to the teachings of Joseph H. and Clara Pilates. Its mission is to foster community, integrity, and respect for diversity, establish certification and continuing education standards, and promote the Pilates method of exercise.
The cost of the day is £30. For further information and details of how to enrol contact the Adult Community Education Office on 648204, or Mo on 625772.
Details of each of the presenters can be found at www.zwpilatesandalexander.com, www.isleofmanpilates.com, and at the Facebook page Pilates with Nicola Hempsall.
